Broadway Star Mauricio Martínez and Casey Elliott Will Lead BROTHERHOOD: A Cinematic Musical

Craftsman Films has announced that Emmy-winning Broadway performer Mauricio Martínez and stage and screen actor Casey Elliott will star in BROTHERHOOD: A Cinematic Musical, a new feature film written and directed by Ross Boothe. Production is set to begin in April, with a theatrical release planned for Fall 2026.

In the film, Elliott plays Jon, a lifelong American citizen, while Martínez portrays Fabián, a Mexican immigrant who has spent more than a decade awaiting a decision on his U.S. asylum application. The story follows the evolving relationship between the two neighbors and their families as they navigate uncertainty and confront assumptions about identity and belonging.

“This project is deeply personal to me,” Martínez said. “As an immigrant, this story hits very close to home right now. It's about people, about heart, and about empathy—and music is such a powerful way to communicate those things. That's what moved me most about BROTHERHOOD.”

Elliott added, “The subject matter is sensitive and can feel polarizing, but what surprised me was how human the story is. It isn't about politics—it's about seeing people for who they are and learning to love your neighbor.”

The film features 17 original musical numbers written by Boothe and centers on themes of immigration, identity, compassion, and faith. According to the filmmakers, the production emphasizes character-driven storytelling over political rhetoric.

Boothe said the project was developed out of a desire to address contemporary issues through music and narrative. “Once the script and score came together, it was clear that the story needed artists who could communicate that heart honestly. Mauricio and Casey bring that humanity to every scene,” he said.

The production team plans to document the filmmaking process on social media throughout development, rehearsals, recording, and production.